A
5%
Overall NAT. AVG.
0%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
13%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Phillipsburg New Jersey National
Cost of living95125100
Groceries100108100
Health care97112100
Housing87157100
Transportation100114100
Utilities98111100
Lifestyle & Entertainment98113100
Household Items99107100
Education & Childcare98120100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Phillipsburg, NJ

Understanding the cost of living in Phillipsburg can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Phillipsburg cost of living index is 95, which is 5% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

The cost of living in Phillipsburg closely mirrors the national average in comparison to other cities nationwide. Essential items such as groceries, houshold expenses, health care and utilities are priced at a level consistent with similar urban areas. This means that residents of Phillipsburg can anticipate that their daily expenses will remain reasonably in line with those of an average city, contributing to a manageable cost of living.

Is Phillipsburg Affordable?

Is Phillipsburg affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Phillipsburg, the median home price is 18.4% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 1.2% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Phillipsburg boasting a median household income of $81,208, 0.2% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Phillipsburg?

Groceries: Over the past 2-3 years, grocery expenses have experienced substantial upward trends. In certain markets, food prices have surged by over 20% during this period, while others have witnessed more modest increases. These fluctuations in food costs can wield significant influence over the overall cost of living in a given region. In Phillipsburg, the groceries index is 0.2% lower than the national average.

Transportation: In situations where public transportation is limited or nonexistent, local residents may be required to own and maintain their own vehicles, contributing to an elevated cost of living. Monthly expenditures may encompass fuel costs, insurance premiums, routine vehicle upkeep and possibly lease or financing payments. In Phillipsburg, the transportation index is 0.1% higher than the national average.

Taxes: Locations with elevated tax rates, encompassing both sales and income taxes, can be a factor in driving up the cost of living. When you're paying more in taxes for everyday household expenses, it naturally translates into higher expenses. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can also contribute to an overall higher cost of living. In Phillipsburg, the standard sales tax rate starts at 6.625%, and the income tax rates commence at 1.4%.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Phillipsburg shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Phillipsburg is 24% lower than the New Jersey average
  • The cost of living in Phillipsburg is 5% lower than the national average
  • Phillipsburg housing is 13% lower than the national average
  • New Jersey general sales tax is 30% higher than the national average
  • New Jersey state income tax is 46% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Phillipsburg

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Compare Phillipsburg, NJ Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$95,356$7,946$2,225$2,861
      Renters$50,529$4,211$1,179$1,516
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in Phillipsburg, NJ, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In Phillipsburg, the median monthly income is $95,356 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $2,225 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $50,529, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $1,179 on monthly rental expenses.

      New Jersey Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      New Jersey 6.625% 12.625%

      New Jersey Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      New Jersey 1.4% 10.75%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Buttzville, NJ59991.2%
      Port Murray, NJ223991.2%
      DeSales University, PA954991.2%
      Port Colden, NJ86991.2%
      Broadway, NJ187991.2%
      Phillipsburg, NJ14,613954.6%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Setauket-East Setauket, NY14,61414444.4%
      Viera West, FL14,60913333.1%
      Swansea, IL14,604991.2%
      Willowick, OH14,6029010.2%
      Anna, TX14,62511111.1%
      Phillipsburg, NJ14,613954.6%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.